New York Grandma’s Dog Returns After MISSING For 11-Years!

New York woman stunned as beloved pup resurfaces thanks to microchip and a surprise phone call! 🌐 #News #BuffaloNY #NewYork #PetsAndAnimals

BUFFALO, NY — A heartwarming reunion in Western New York is turning heads after a grandmother was unexpectedly reunited with her long-lost dog more than a decade after he vanished during a hectic move.

What seemed like an impossible miracle unfolded for Buffalo resident Melanie Epperson, whose tiny dog, Snuggles, went missing 11 years ago. Back then, Epperson had just moved into a new home when the pup slipped away, never to be seen again—until now.

Microchip Miracle Leads to Shocking Call From Shelter

Epperson had long assumed Snuggles was gone for good. As the years passed, her hope faded, especially as harsh Buffalo winters made her worry about the little dog’s ability to survive outdoors. The mystery of what happened to Snuggles remained unsolved—until this month.

Everything changed when her daughter, Chantel Stroud, received an unexpected message from the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter. A good Samaritan had dropped off a small dog, and a microchip scan revealed the family’s contact info. At first, Stroud thought the shelter staff were playing a trick on her. But when they confirmed the name “Snuggles” and asked about Epperson, the pieces fell into place.

Emotional Reunion Brings Closure After a Decade of Uncertainty

Initially skeptical, Epperson couldn’t believe what her daughter was telling her. But the disbelief quickly melted into emotion once the truth set in: her beloved companion had come home. While nobody knows exactly where Snuggles has been for the last 11 years—or how he managed to stay safe—none of that mattered once the two were reunited.

Epperson, now filled with gratitude, says she’s cherishing every moment she has left with her aging pup. After researching small dog lifespans, she’s hopeful Snuggles still has several more years to enjoy warm blankets, family hugs, and yes—plenty of snuggling.

Did You know?

Over 10 million pets are lost annually in the U.S., but microchipped dogs are returned over 50% of the time (American Veterinary Medical Association)
Buffalo winters average 94 inches of snow annually, posing dangerous conditions for small lost animals (National Weather Service)
Small dog breeds often live between 12 to 18 years, depending on care and health (American Kennel Club)

Moment for Reflection

Sometimes the things we think are gone forever find their way back—just when we least expect it. Love, faith, and a little hope can stretch across even the longest gaps in time. Just like this little dog, we all need a home to return to.